With Theis gone, the Thunder now have an open roster spot. They could use it to convert Ajay Mitchell to a standard deal. The two-way rookie has played well despite toe surgery likely knocking him out for the rest of the regular season. No need to risk exposing him to restricted free agency.

The New Orleans Pelicans have traded center Daniel Theis and a 2031 second-round draft pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder for cash.

Theis is a 32-year-old center who's averaging 4.3 points and 4.3 rebounds in 16.3 minutes per game this season, and he's on an expiring $2.1-million contract. OKC has been short-handed at the five this season.